New school buses expected to reduce expenditures and emissions

The province says it has purchased 16 propane-powered school buses as part of a pilot-project to reduce emissions and costs.

A release says an annual reduction of two tons of carbon dioxide per bus is anticipated, and the range of the buses is greater than that of electric buses, making them viable long-term options for longer or rural routes.

The initial cost of the propane buses are greater than their diesel counterparts, but the province says the annual operational costs are expected to be $2,500 lower per bus, which equals an expense reduction of $30,000 over the 12-year lifespan of each vehicle.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure says the cost of fuel for the year will be 10% lower for propane buses compared to diesel buses, with the potential to reduce motor oil usage and associated costs by up to 50%.

Along with the 12 propane buses, the province also bought 74 gasoline-powered buses as part of the pilot project, which will provide annual maintenance savings of $500 per bus, while emitting less greenhouse gases than traditional diesel buses.

A release states the vehicles were purchased as part of the annual bus fleet life cycle management process.

The propane buses will serve the Greater Moncton area and will be in operation this coming school year.